Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council Expresses Deep Condolences Following Ahmedabad Air Tragedy

Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council Expresses Deep Condolences Following Ahmedabad Air Tragedy

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 15, 2025

The Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council (THSC) has expressed profound sorrow over the tragic crash of Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, which crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad. Bound for London Gatwick, the flight was carrying 242 passengers, with initial reports confirming over 100 fatalities and many more injured after the aircraft descended into a residential and hostel zone near Meghani Nagar.

Mrs. Jyoti Mayal, Chairperson of THSC and Former President of the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI), extended heartfelt condolences to the families impacted.

“This tragedy has not only shaken communities but also cast a shadow over the spirit of travel and exploration that unites us all. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, the brave rescue workers, and the medical staff tirelessly working on the ground. We stand in solidarity and commit to supporting relief and rehabilitation efforts in any way we can,” she said.

Reflecting on the wider implications of such disasters, Mrs. Mayal stressed the importance of safety and preparedness within the travel and hospitality industry.

“Incidents like these serve as stark reminders that safety is the foundation of a resilient tourism sector,” she noted.
“When tragedy strikes, it disrupts not just lives but also the confidence of travelers, the livelihoods of those dependent on tourism, and the overall image of a destination.”

THSC reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing crisis management across the industry and announced that it is actively exploring the integration of emergency response modules into its certification programs, equipping hospitality professionals with the skills needed to respond effectively during such unforeseen events.

“The Ahmedabad crash is a solemn reminder of the interdependence between safety, preparedness, and public trust in travel,” added Mrs. Mayal.

As the nation comes to terms with the loss, THSC stands united with all affected and will continue to advocate for stronger safety measures, staff training, and cross-sector coordination to uphold the highest standards of traveller security and confidence.


Monday Hotels to Launch Fourth Property in Hyderabad at Shamshabad

Monday Hotels to Launch Fourth Property in Hyderabad at Shamshabad

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 5, 2025

Monday Hotels is all set to expand its footprint in Hyderabad with the launch of its fourth property in the city, located in the rapidly developing area of Shamshabad. Just a short drive from Rajiv Gandhi International Airport and seamlessly connected through the Outer Ring Road, this upcoming hotel is ideally positioned to cater to business travellers, tourists, and transit guests seeking easy access and modern comfort. Slated to open later this year, the new property will feature 38 well-appointed rooms, smart business amenities, and a curated dining experience, all designed with the evolving needs of today’s traveller in mind. 

The brand continues to grow its presence in key hubs, and the addition of the Shamshabad location aligns with Monday Hotels' mission to provide seamless stays across well-connected urban and transit destinations.

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“We’re thrilled to expand in Hyderabad with this new Shamshabad location, which perfectly matches our brand’s energy and vision,” said Salim Shaikh, Co-Founder of Monday Hotels. The announcement marks another milestone in the group’s steady growth across South India’s hospitality sector.


Machan Resorts LLP Earns Dual Honors from Great Place to Work

Machan Resorts LLP Earns Dual Honors from Great Place to Work

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 4, 2025

Machan Resorts LLP has proudly secured two prestigious honors from Great Place to Work, reinforcing its reputation as a leading hospitality brand with an inspiring workplace culture.

  •  Ranked #27 among India’s Top Mid-Sized Workplaces
  • Recognized among the Best Workplaces in the Hospitality Industry – Mid-Sized

These recognitions highlight Machan's steadfast commitment to fostering an inclusive and empowering work environment, grounded in trust, professional growth, and a shared sense of purpose.

Rakshit Sharma, COO of Machan Resorts LLP, shared his thoughts on the recognition:

“Being certified as a Great Place to Work is not just a title – it’s a testament to the strong culture we’ve nurtured at Machan. We believe that hospitality begins from within, and this recognition celebrates the collective spirit, dedication, and positivity of our entire team.”

Great Place to Work, a globally respected authority on workplace culture, evaluates over 100 million employees annually across 150+ countries. The rankings are based on employee feedback and people-centric practices, providing a global benchmark for workplace excellence.

Best known for its flagship eco-resort in Lonavala, The Machan is celebrated for its luxurious tree houses nestled amidst nature, offering guests unmatched serenity and panoramic forest views. The group also manages Legacy Mandawa, a regal heritage haveli in Rajasthan.

With exciting new properties in the pipeline across Karjat, Jaisalmer, Udaipur, and Mulshi, Machan Resorts is not just expanding its footprint but also carrying forward its employee-first philosophy across locations.

This milestone adds yet another feather to the brand’s cap, positioning Machan Resorts LLP as not only a pioneer in sustainable hospitality but also a benchmark in workplace culture within the Indian hospitality sector.


Alivaa Hotels & Resorts Welcomes Heritage Lotwara Fort, Marking Entry into Heritage Hospitality

Alivaa Hotels & Resorts Welcomes Heritage Lotwara Fort, Marking Entry into Heritage Hospitality

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 3, 2025

Alivaa Hotels & Resorts has officially entered the world of heritage hospitality with the addition of Heritage Lotwara Fort in Dausa, Rajasthan to its growing portfolio. This marks Alivaa’s 15th property and its first-ever heritage destination, signifying a meaningful leap in its hospitality journey.

Nestled along the banks of the sacred Banganga River, the 17th-century Lotwara Fort was built by Thakur Ganga Singh and is deeply rooted in the history of the Royal Amber and Jaipur States, representing the legacy of the Kilanot clan of the Kacchawa Dynasty. The surrounding village, fondly referred to as "Peacock Town" for its thriving peafowl population, offers visitors a tranquil blend of history, nature, and Rajasthani charm.

Meticulously restored by Thakur Giriraj Singh Ji, the fort today welcomes architecture and history lovers with regal accommodations such as the King’s Room and Queen’s Room, traditional courtyards, historic Kachehri, and ornate Chhatries, all set within 52,300 sq. ft. of royal elegance.

This expansion reflects Alivaa Hotels & Resorts' strategic intent to offer unique, culturally immersive experiences. By preserving and enhancing heritage destinations like Lotwara, Alivaa strengthens its footprint in tourism-rich regions like Rajasthan, while contributing meaningfully to heritage conservation.

“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Heritage Lotwara Fort into The Alivaa Hotels & Resorts collection,” said Akash Bhatia, CEO – Alivaa Hotels & Resorts. “Venturing into the heritage segment comes with immense responsibility, and it's a responsibility we embrace with dedication.”

Vikramjit Singh, Founder of Alivaa Hotels & Resorts, added,

“The addition of Lotwara Fort is a testament to our vision of creating a diverse and captivating portfolio that caters to the evolving preferences of travellers.”

Mrs. Aventika Rathore, Proprietor of Shaurya Hospitality, expressed,

“Their expertise in hospitality management and commitment to excellence make Alivaa the ideal partner to ensure the fort retains its legacy while offering authentic experiences.”

Thakur Lokendra Giriraj Singh Lotwara, Owner of Heritage Lotwara Palace, shared,

“We are confident that Alivaa’s deep understanding of the hospitality sector will help preserve and elevate the legacy of Lotwara Fort for generations to come.”

With this historic addition, Alivaa Hotels & Resorts opens the gates to timeless Rajasthani hospitality, inviting guests to step into the pages of history—where culture, comfort, and heritage come alive.

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